In adddition
to bacterial soft rot, several other root and rhizome
rots that affect hostas. These are probably all fungal.
Phytophthora and Pythium are two that have been identified and
are fairly common. These move through the roots and rhizome
much slower than bacterial soft rot, but can still kill the
plant if left untreated. Symptoms are brown soft roots and
dead brown rhizome material.

Cut away any root or rhizome that does not look healthy. Healthy
rhizome should look and feel like coconut meat - any that is soft or
tan-colored is dead. Roots should be firm, white, and not pull
away. Let dry well in the sun for 20 minutes or so then treat with
either Phyton or a systemic fungicide like Clearys 3336.

In the Garden: Clean away
any affected material, dry in sun for 15-20 minutes and dust cut
surfaces with Thiomyl before replanting.

In the
Nursery: Preventative treatment with systemic fungicides like Alude
or Banol that are labeled for Phytophthora
and Pythium is usually successful.